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Peru Prosecutors Probe Twin Land Grabs in Machu Picchu Buffer Zone as Police Await Eviction Request

Preliminary proceedings target nine suspects and request reports from the municipality and Sernanp as authorities assess impacts on the protected area.

Overview

  • The Public Ministry confirmed two investigations: a February 27 case on the left side of the Hiram Bingham road linked to bus operations and a March 13 mass occupation on the right side near the Ruinas bridge.
  • Prosecutors in Machupicchu opened preliminary proceedings against nine people tied to the March occupation and ordered identifications, statements, and official reports from local authorities.
  • Police inspections documented fences, improvised structures, and camping, with initial counts near 50 people and later reports indicating around 200 occupants whose numbers fluctuate.
  • Authorities say the conduct could constitute aggravated usurpation on state land, an offense that carries penalties of up to eight years in prison if proven.
  • The National Police continue surveillance but cannot carry out a removal without a formal request from the Machupicchu municipality or a court order, which is needed to begin land recovery procedures.